Any efforts aimed at alleviating the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be highly appreciated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one-third of U.S. adults (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Health issues related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and specific types of cancer, rank among the top causes of preventable mortality. The historical use of cinnamon for culinary and medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, where the outer bark is carefully removed from select branches. The inner bark, which is the cinnamon layer, is also extracted. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be sliced into sticks or ground into powder.
Cinnamon is frequently used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In certain regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is incorporated into savory dishes. Numerous studies have investigated the medicinal properties of cinnamon over the years. Research has highlighted various effects, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties; reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol; antioxidant and free-radical scavenging capabilities; anti-gastric ulcer effects; anti-inflammatory actions; and wound-healing properties. Some supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to capitalize on these potential health benefits, although high doses of certain compounds in cinnamon may be toxic.
Today, cinnamon remains a popular spice found in numerous foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most widely traded spices globally, with an anticipated growth rate of 16.2% CAGR from 2017 to 2021. Global cinnamon exports were valued at $484 million last year, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor can be found in products such as General Mills’ Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, Hostess Brands’ cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes, and a new cinnamon roll-flavored non-dairy ice cream from Halo Top. Earlier this year, PepsiCo introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola named Pepsi Fire, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this study may pave the way for market advancements, it does not yet merit viewing cinnamon-laden treats as health foods. However, it may encourage the inclusion of cinnamon in more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasized the need for further investigation to determine how to effectively harness the weight-loss benefits of this spice without causing adverse side effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to explore the potential synergistic effects of cinnamon when combined with calcitrate and vitamin D, particularly regarding their collective impact on weight management and overall health.